The Best Online Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) Programs
Students who are passionate about spreading their faith or teaching others to do the same can earn a doctorate in ministry. An online ministry doctoral degree allows graduates to become ministry professors or researchers. In the ministry teaching profession, doctorate holders can influence future religious leaders and make an average of $83,980 per year. Graduates can also be pastors and religious counselors. Graduates can start their own churches, counsel distressed people, and work in hospitals or existing churches. Payscale reports that the average salary for learners with this degree is $78,000 per year.
The Best Online Doctorate in Ministry Degree Programs
Duke University
- Durham, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Duke University offers an online ministry program for doctoral students. At the private university, degree-seekers participate in virtual classrooms to earn a doctorate in ministry. Doctoral students meet with career advisors and faculty mentors.
The online ministry program requires doctoral coursework. Doctoral candidates move through the program by passing exams and researching a dissertation project. A doctorate in ministry trains graduates for roles in research, academia, and leadership.
At the accredited institution, online doctoral students qualify for scholarships, federal loans, and other forms of financial aid. Contact the program to learn more about financial aid, enrollment options, and start dates.
Duke University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 997
Online Master's Programs: 2
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $55,680
6%
$55,680
98%
$55,680
- Acceptance Rate
- 8%
- Students Enrolled
- 16,686
- Institution Type
- Private
Boston University
- Boston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The doctor of ministry in transformational leadership program at Boston University offers an online option for doctoral students. At the private university, degree-seekers participate in virtual classrooms to earn a doctorate. Doctoral students work closely with faculty mentors and career advisors.
The online ministry program requires doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation. A doctorate in ministry trains graduates for roles in research, academia, and leadership.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.
Boston University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,205
Online Master's Programs: 24
Online Doctoral Programs: 4
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $54,720
10%
$54,720
94%
$54,720
- Acceptance Rate
- 19%
- Students Enrolled
- 33,720
- Institution Type
- Private
Emory University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus
- Accredited
The doctor of ministry program at Emory University appeals to doctoral students seeking an online route to their degree. The private university provides flexible enrollment options to meet the needs of diverse degree-seekers. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present at academic conferences.
The online ministry program requires doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates spend 1-2 years researching and writing their dissertation. As the terminal degree in ministry, the program prepares graduates for academic, research, and industry positions.
Doctoral students qualify for fellowships, scholarships, and federal financial aid programs at the accredited institution. Contact the program for more information about financial aid and the admission process.
Emory University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,426
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $42,800
10%
$42,800
95%
$42,800
- Acceptance Rate
- 16%
- Students Enrolled
- 14,415
- Institution Type
- Private
Clarks Summit University
- South Abington Township, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Doctoral students seeking an online ministry program benefit from the doctor of ministry program at Clarks Summit University. The private university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible format. Doctoral students receive research support throughout the program.
Learners take doctoral classes in the ministry program. Doctoral candidates advance in the program by passing comprehensive exams and writing an original dissertation. Graduates with a doctorate pursue roles in research, academia, and leadership.
Online doctoral students can pay for their degree with scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. Contact the program for more information about financial aid and the admission process.
Clarks Summit University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 490
Online Master's Programs: 5
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,160
64%
$8,160
78%
$8,160
- Acceptance Rate
- 41%
- Students Enrolled
- 771
- Institution Type
- Private
Luther Rice College & Seminary
- Lithonia, GA
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Luther Rice College & Seminary offers a top-ranked online doctor of ministry program. At the private institution, degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible environment. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.
In the online ministry program, learners complete doctoral-level coursework. Doctoral candidates pass comprehensive examinations and conduct research for their dissertation. As the terminal degree in ministry, the doctoral program trains graduates for roles in academia, research, and industry.
Doctoral students who attend the accredited institution in an online format qualify for several types of financial aid. Contact the program to learn more about doctoral admission requirements.
Luther Rice College & Seminary at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 760
Online Master's Programs: 5
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,130
97%
$5,130
N/A
$5,130
- Acceptance Rate
- 50%
- Students Enrolled
- 782
- Institution Type
- Private
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Doctoral students seeking an online ministry program benefit from the doctor of ministry program at Liberty University. The private university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible format. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.
During the online ministry program, learners take 30 credits of doctoral courses to earn their degree. Doctoral candidates pass comprehensive examinations and conduct research for their dissertation. Professionals with a ministry doctorate work in academia, research, and leadership roles.
At the accredited institution, doctoral students can use fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degree. Contact the ministry program for more information about doctoral admissions.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 78,511
Online Master's Programs: 67
Online Doctoral Programs: 9
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,980
Accepts Transfer Credits: Accepted
92%
$7,980
81%
$7,980
- Acceptance Rate
- 51%
- Students Enrolled
- 85,586
- Institution Type
- Private
Indiana Wesleyan University
- Marion, IN
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Doctoral students seeking an online program benefit from the ministry program at Indiana Wesleyan University. At the private university, degree-seekers participate in virtual classrooms to earn a doctorate. Doctoral students receive support services like career advising and research support.
In the online ministry program, graduate learners take advanced courses. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates conduct research and defend an original dissertation that contributes to the field. A doctorate in ministry trains graduates for roles in research, academia, and leadership.
Doctoral students pay for the program with federal financial aid, fellowships, and scholarships. Contact the program for more information about financial aid and the admission process.
Indiana Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 11,075
Online Master's Programs: 29
Online Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,083
97%
$11,083
N/A
$11,083
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 11,410
- Institution Type
- Private
The Catholic University of America
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The doctor of ministry in spirituality program at The Catholic University of America offers a flexible route to a doctorate. Degree-seekers benefit from flexible course options through the private institution. Doctoral students receive research support, library access, and career advising.
Learners complete doctoral coursework in the online ministry program. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates propose a dissertation topic and conduct research in their specialty area. With a doctorate, graduates work in academia, research positions, and leadership roles.
Doctoral students qualify for fellowships, scholarships, and federal financial aid programs at the accredited institution. Contact the ministry program for more information about financial aid and the admission process.
The Catholic University of America at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 738
Online Master's Programs: 8
Online Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $48,000
13%
$48,000
88%
$48,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,771
- Institution Type
- Private
Bethel University
- Saint Paul, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The doctor of ministry program at Bethel University appeals to doctoral students seeking an online route to their degree. At the private institution, degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible environment. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.
In the online ministry program, learners take doctoral-level courses. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates complete a dissertation that contributes original research to the field. A doctorate in ministry prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and leadership.
Doctoral students attending the accredited institution online qualify for several forms of financial aid. Contact the program for more information about research support and financial aid.
Bethel University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,569
Online Master's Programs: 12
Online Doctoral Programs: 6
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,700
39%
$11,700
83%
$11,700
- Acceptance Rate
- 79%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,005
- Institution Type
- Private
North Greenville University
- Tigerville, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The D.Min. program at North Greenville University offers a doctorate in ministry in an online learning format. With flexible enrollment options, the private school helps degree-seekers earn a doctorate. Doctoral students receive research support throughout the program.
In the online ministry program, graduate learners complete advanced classes. The program also requires passing scores on a comprehensive examination and the successful defense of an original dissertation project. With a doctorate in ministry, graduates pursue academic, research, and industry roles.
Online doctoral students at the accredited institution pay for their degree with scholarships, fellowships, and loans. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.
North Greenville University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 396
Online Master's Programs: 11
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,800
16%
$10,800
72%
$10,800
- Acceptance Rate
- 63%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,426
- Institution Type
- Private
Fordham University
- Bronx, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online doctor of ministry program at Fordham University ranks as one of the best degrees in the field. Degree-seekers benefit from flexible course options through the private institution. Doctoral students conduct research and participate in academic conferences.
The doctoral program incorporates advanced coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates begin working on an original dissertation project. A doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.
Doctoral students pay for the program with federal financial aid, fellowships, and scholarships. Prospective applicants can contact the program for more about financial aid and admission requirements.
Fordham University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,097
Online Master's Programs: 12
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $34,608
12%
$34,608
91%
$34,608
- Acceptance Rate
- 46%
- Students Enrolled
- 16,972
- Institution Type
- Private
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
- Waxahachie, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online ministry program at Southwestern Assemblies of God University ranks among the best in the field. At the private institution, degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible environment. Doctoral students receive research support throughout the program.
During the online ministry program, learners take doctoral courses to earn their degree. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates complete a dissertation that contributes original research to the field. A doctorate in ministry prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and leadership.
Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about admission requirements.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,440
Online Master's Programs: 16
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,710
70%
$10,710
67%
$10,710
- Acceptance Rate
- 88%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,050
- Institution Type
- Private
Lancaster Bible College
- Lancaster, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The D.Min. program at Lancaster Bible College offers a flexible route to a doctorate. The private university provides flexible enrollment options for degree-seekers. Doctoral students participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.
The online ministry program requires doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates begin working on an original dissertation project. A doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Contact the ministry program for more information about doctoral admissions.
Lancaster Bible College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 550
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,440
25%
$10,440
75%
$10,440
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,172
- Institution Type
- Private
Southern California Seminary
- El Cajon, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Southern California Seminary offers a doctor of ministry program with an online learning format. At the private university, degree-seekers participate in virtual classroom work to earn a doctorate. Doctoral students receive research support and participate in scholarly events.
In the online program, learners take advanced doctoral coursework in ministry. After completing coursework, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation or doctoral project. As the terminal degree in ministry, the doctoral program trains graduates for roles in academia, research, and industry.
Doctoral students who enroll online at the accredited institution qualify for fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid. Reach out to the ministry program to learn more about the application process and start dates.
Southern California Seminary at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 130
Online Master's Programs: 2
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,588
74%
$15,588
100%
$15,588
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 176
- Institution Type
- Private
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The doctor of ministry in leadership and spiritual formation program at Regent University offers an online option for doctoral students. With its flexible format, the private university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate. Doctoral students participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.
In the online ministry program, graduate learners complete advanced classes. Doctoral candidates advance in the program by passing comprehensive exams and writing an original dissertation. Graduates with a ministry doctorate pursue roles in research, academia, and leadership.
At the accredited institution, doctoral students can use fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degree. Reach out to the ministry program to learn more about transfer credit policies, research support, and admission requirements.
Regent University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,507
Online Master's Programs: 37
Online Doctoral Programs: 12
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,552
92%
$15,552
78%
$15,552
- Acceptance Rate
- 86%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,365
- Institution Type
- Private
Best Online Programs
Doctorate in Ministry
2023
Online Doctorate in Ministry Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyChoosing an Online Doctorate in Ministry Program
Many schools that offer ministry programs require students to attend church and grow in their faith. As such, it is important for learners to choose a school that aligns with their spiritual beliefs. Admission requirements also affect which university an applicant attends. For example, an institution that offers an online ministry doctoral degree may only accept applicants who have a master’s degree in a related subject and pastoral experience.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Doctorate in Ministry Program?
Each online ministry doctoral degree may look different based on student preferences and what each university offers. Ministry programs; however, often have commonalities. Students may find that many schools provide similar concentrations and courses. Below, are some of the specializations and classes that degree candidates encounter.
Concentrations Offered for an Online Doctoral Degree in Ministry
- Pastoral Counseling:
Ministers not only profess and help others grow in faith, but they also help church members through difficult times. Learners who want to serve troubled constituents can benefit from this track. Students in this concentration take courses such as psychology, religion, and crisis intervention.- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Head pastor, chaplain
- Marriage and Family Ministry:
The family is at the heart of many religions. This concentration allows students to learn how marriage and parenthood can affect faith. Students learn to conduct premarital counseling, help new parents, and use spirituality to keep families together. Graduates with this specialization often become head pastors or youth ministers.- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Head pastor, youth minister
- Academic Ministry:
Degree candidates who want to teach future pastors and church leaders can benefit from this concentration. Students learn to research theological issues and approach spiritual questions with academic rigor. They also study religious texts. Many graduates stay in academia as professors and researchers.- Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Professor
Curriculum for an Online Doctoral Degree in Ministry
- Communities of Faith:
This course teaches students to form a church where members can grow in their faith. Learners discover how to gain disciples and strengthen existing communities. - Faith in Today’s Culture:
This course considers the role of religion in a changing society. Learners in these classes place their faith in historical and societal contexts. They learn to address local and global issues with spiritual principles. - Christian Spiritual Formation:
This course examines the history of biblical principles. Degree candidates learn how different sects of Christianity began and what differentiates belief systems.
- Theological Foundations of Ministry:
Learners in these courses study the religious principles that guide ministers in their religions. For example, biblical students learn about the Christian tenants of church leadership. - Thesis Seminar:
A doctor of ministry degree often requires students to complete a thesis project. Learners use this time to research specific areas of ministry, become experts, and prepare to defend their theories.
Careers with a Doctorate in Ministry
Although a doctorate in ministry is a specialized degree, graduates have many career paths. Learners with this educational background can become senior pastors, church executive directors, or college professors. Students may select electives based on the career they prefer.
- Senior Pastor:
These spiritual leaders give sermons and lead ministries at churches. They may have other pastors that work under them, or they may be the only ministers at their congregations. Senior pastors at larger churches tend to earn more than their peers. They may work for any Protestant Christian sect, including Baptist and Presbyterian.- Median Annual Salary: $69,682
- Executive Director:
Since churches are often nonprofit organizations, they need business-minded and spiritually guided leaders to help them succeed. Executive directors oversee all church activities, from spiritual guidance to fundraising. A doctorate can help directors learn to grow congregations. Learners who want to follow this path may choose business-related electives.- Median Annual Salary: $91,936
- Postsecondary Teachers:
University faculty members teach classes in ministry and theology. Professors can specialize in certain areas, often a subject that relates to their thesis project. Many colleges and universities require postsecondary teachers to have a doctorate. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that this profession will grow much faster than the average career.- Median Annual Salary: $83,980
- Projected Growth Rate: 8%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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